Experts at a recent forum in Bangkok emphasized the urgent need for Thailand to advance its artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, enhance digital skills, and foster collaboration among government, academia, and businesses to maintain its competitive edge. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, Yodchanan Wongsawat, advocated for a focus on specialized technological capabilities in sectors like agriculture, biodiversity, and environmental technology, which can leverage valuable local data.
Yodchanan highlighted the importance of education in driving Thailand’s AI strategy, urging a stronger emphasis on mathematics, science, algorithms, and entrepreneurship. He also stressed the need for continuous learning to adapt to technological changes, calling for reskilling and upskilling initiatives.
Business leaders echoed these sentiments, with Bangkok Bank executive Kobsak Pootrakool underscoring the necessity of utilizing AI to enhance productivity. He noted that a foundation of reliable and well-organized data is critical for successful AI deployment and highlighted the growing significance of automation and robotics in manufacturing. Kobsak called for investment in technology infrastructure and data systems, alongside the establishment of suitable regulations.
Jirayut Srupsrisopa, founder of Bitkub Capital Group, advocated for an AI-first approach across Thailand’s economy, suggesting that AI could help mitigate workforce challenges and boost productivity. The experts collectively agreed that stronger educational frameworks, improved data infrastructure, and effective regulation, paired with public-private sector cooperation, are vital to translating technological progress into broader economic growth.